Born in Spartanburg, he was a son of the late Robert J. and Dorothy Lawter McClellan. He was retired from The Whitten Center, a member of Mt. Gallagher Baptist Church and a former member and deacon of Poplar Springs Baptist Church. An Eagle Scout, C.W. had served as Scout Master for the Ware Shoals Troup #902. He was a member of the Ware Shoals Lodge #306 A.F.M., the York Rite, and the Hejaz Shrine Temple where he was a member of the Hillbilly Clan #2. He was a graduate of 1961 and attended Spartanburg Junior College.

Surviving are his wife of the home, a son, Rev. William J. “Billy” McClellan (Luanne) and three grandchildren, Caitlyn, Emily, and William II. In addition to his parents, C.W. was predeceased by a daughter, Sheena McClellan and a sister, Deanna M. Gates.

Graveside services with Masonic Rites will be held at 1 PM on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Greenwood Memorial Gardens with Rev. Dr. Marcus Bishop officiating.

The family will be at their respective homes and will receive friends after the service at the cemetery. Memorials may be made to The Shriners Hospital, 950 W. Ferris Road, Greenville, SC 29605. Online condolences may be made at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com.